Francis listened as priests expressed condolences in several languages during his weekly public audience at the Vatican. Later in the day, Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner telephoned Francis to express "condolences from her and from the Argentine people," the Vatican said.

Vatican auditorium two days after he returned from a six day trip to South Korea. But Francis, a passionate fan of the San Lorenzo soccer team, brightened when he greeted members of the Buenos Aires squad, which won the Copa Libertadores, South America's prestigious soccer trophy.

The 77 year old pontiff then explained about his family. "We were five siblings. I have 16 nephews and nieces and one of these nephews had a car accident and lost his wife and two little ones and is in critical condition. I thank you very much for your condolences and prayers."